This Shocking Picture Reveals What Really Goes Into A Jar Of Nutella

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A new image which visually breaks down Nutella’s main ingredients has surprised thousands of the hazelnut spread’s most devoted fans. The picture, which divides a 220g jar of Nutella by ingredient, was posted on Reddit where it was upvoted 28,700 times.

Instead of the usual chocolate-hazelnut spread, this picture shows the famous jar filled with layers of the brand's five main ingredients in their raw form: palm oil, cocoa, hazelnuts, skimmed milk powder, and sugar.

Each layer is said to accurately represent the proportion of each ingredient in a jar of Nutella - and shockingly, half the jar is filled with white sugar.

Nutella, which is made by Ferrero, contains 8.5g of sugar in each teaspoon, which means a 400g jar contains 227.2g of sugar, making up over half of the jar.

Of the viral image, Nutella said in a statement: 'We don’t disclose the full proportions of the ingredients in Nutella as our recipe is unique and we wish to safeguard this."

'The product’s label provides simple and clear nutritional information per 15g portion, or two heaped teaspoons, as well as per 100g. The ingredients are also listed on the Nutella website.'

Among the other ingredients pictured in distinctive layers within the Nutella jar is the controversial palm oil.

The image was posted following the recent Nutella cancer scare, which arose after a report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) declared palm oil to be more carcinogenic than any other oil.

In a statement, Ferrero did not comment on the accuracy of the image but said the product should continue to be used as recommended - as part of a balanced diet.

"One of Ferrero’s core nutritional beliefs is that small portion sizes help people to enjoy their favorite foods in moderation. The labeling on all our products enables consumers to make informed choices and helps ensure that Nutella can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet."

Of the recent cancer scare, it added: 'The health and safety of consumers is an absolute and first priority for Ferrero and we confirm that Ferrero products are safe."

The chocolate spread relies on palm oil for its smooth texture and considerably long shelf life and Nutella insists the spread would not be the same without the oil.

Palm oil is also the cheapest oil on the market, and a switch in ingredients would cost Ferrero an extra $8-22 million a year.